florida motorcyle laws

Motorcycles mean freedom, excitement, the thrill of the open road. There are nearly 583,000 registered motorcycle operators in the state of Florida – second in the country only to California. Major events like Daytona Bike Week bring tens of thousands more to enjoy the incomparable scenery and weather. But there’s a darker – more dangerous – side to riding a motorcycle. Florida leads the nation in a more grim statistic: according to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, the Sunshine State is the most dangerous states for motorcyclists.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or a family member has been killed, consult an experienced Perkins Law Offices, We have the most experienced Miami Florida personal injury attorneys to ensure your rights are fully protected. The first step is arming yourself with information about motorcycle laws in the state.

Turn Signals/Mirrors: Florida law requires motorcycles to have working turn signals and at least one rearview mirror. Insurance Requirements: Florida riders are required to carry $20,000 total bodily injury/$10,000 property damage and per-person bodily injury; and $30,000 single-limit liability.

If you’re injured in a motorcycle crash, financial help could be available for all your damages and losses. It is important that you understand your legal rights and options:

Motorcycle endorsement – Anyone operating a motorcycle in Florida is required to have a “motorcycle endorsement” through the Florida DMV. If you already have a driver’s license, you can be issued a motorcycle endorsement. People who don’t have a driver’s license may qualify for a license that allows them to operate motorcycles only.

Helmet law – Florida’s helmet law is complex. Although it generally requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets, the law doesn’t apply to riders over 21 if the person is covered by an insurance policy providing for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. For motorcycle riders between the ages of 16 and 20, a state-approved safety helmet is mandatory. The helmet law, however, doesn’t apply to anyone 16 or older riding a motorcycle powered by a motor that is 50 cc or less.

Eye protection – All motorcycle operators and passengers are required under the law to wear eye protection such as goggles, glasses or a face shield. This law doesn’t include any passengers who are riding in enclosed sidecars.

Riding laws – The law requires the use of a daytime headlight for all Florida riders. Motorcycle’s handlebars can’t be higher than the rider’s shoulders when they are seated on the motorcycle. Motorcyclists aren’t allowed under the law to wear headphones or earphones while riding. Florida law does allow motorcyclists to ride side by side. Motorists are required to give riders a full lane. State law prohibits motorcyclists from splitting lanes. The law also states that motorcycles need to have working turn signals and at least one rearview mirror.